Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical study with applied clinical practice to build specialist mental health nursing capabilities. Core topics typically cover advanced mental health assessment and formulation, therapeutic communication and psychotherapies, risk assessment and crisis intervention, psychopharmacology and medication management, recovery‑oriented and strengths‑based care, cultural safety and working with diverse populations, and integrated care for co‑occurring physical and substance use conditions.

Research and evidence‑based practice are embedded across the course with units in research methods, quality improvement and clinical governance to prepare graduates to contribute to service development and evaluation. A substantial clinical placement or practicum component provides supervised experience in a range of settings such as inpatient units, community mental health teams, child and adolescent services, forensic services and primary care.

• Advanced mental health assessment and diagnostic reasoning
• Therapeutic interventions and psychosocial approaches
• Risk management, suicide prevention and crisis response
• Psychopharmacology and medication safety in mental health
• Cultural competence and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other diverse communities
• Research methods, evidence translation and service improvement
• Supervised clinical practicum in mental health settings

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to be registered nurses with a recognised nursing registration authority and to hold a bachelor degree in nursing or equivalent professional qualifications and experience. Evidence of current registration and professional practice in a clinical nursing role is usually required.

Prospective students may also need to meet institution requirements for English language proficiency and provide a current curriculum vitae, references and any mandated health and safety documentation for clinical placements (for example immunisations and background checks). Specific prerequisite units or clinical experience may be stipulated for some applicants; applicants should consult the university for precise admission criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for advanced clinical roles in a wide range of mental health environments. Common employment pathways include positions as specialist mental health nurses in public and private hospitals, community mental health clinicians, case managers, outreach and assertive community treatment teams, child and adolescent mental health services, forensic mental health services and residential rehabilitation programs.

Additional career opportunities can include roles in leadership and service coordination, clinical education, policy and program development, telehealth and remote health services, non‑government organisations and research positions that focus on improving mental health care delivery.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a blend of online and on‑campus delivery designed to suit practising clinicians, with access to clinical simulation facilities and a network of placement partners across metropolitan, regional and rural settings. The university has a strong emphasis on preparing graduates for work in underserved and rural communities, and teaching is informed by staff with clinical and research experience in mental health.

Students benefit from flexible study options, integrated practical training and academic support services to help manage study alongside professional commitments. The programme focuses on contemporary, recovery‑oriented approaches and equips nurses with the skills needed for advanced practice, leadership and contribution to service improvement in mental health care.